What To Know
- If you desire a shallower depth of field for portraits or product photography, you might need to consider a lens with a wider maximum aperture.
- The IS system in the 18-135mm lens is generally considered to be more effective, providing up to 4 stops of compensation, compared to the 3 stops of compensation offered by the 18-55mm lens.
- This makes it a more budget-friendly option for photographers who are just starting out or who don’t need the extra zoom range of the 18-135mm lens.
The Canon EOS 700D is a popular DSLR camera known for its user-friendly interface and impressive image quality. But when it comes to choosing the right lens, the decision can be tricky. Two popular options often come into play: the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM and the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM. Both lenses are designed for the APS-C sensor of the Canon EOS 700D, offering a versatile range for everyday photography. However, their differences in focal length and features make them suitable for different shooting scenarios.
This blog post will dive deep into the specifics of each lens, exploring their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision. We’ll compare their focal length, aperture, image quality, autofocus performance, and more. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which lens best aligns with your photographic needs and budget.
Focal Length: Zooming in and Out
The most significant difference between the two lenses lies in their focal length. The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM offers a much wider zoom range, spanning from 18mm to 135mm (equivalent to 29mm to 216mm in full-frame terms). This versatility makes it ideal for capturing a variety of subjects, from wide landscapes and architectural shots to portraits and close-up details.
On the other hand, the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM boasts a more modest zoom range, extending from 18mm to 55mm (equivalent to 29mm to 88mm in full-frame terms). This lens is better suited for everyday photography, capturing everyday scenes, portraits, and travel shots.
Aperture: Controlling Light and Depth of Field
Both lenses have a maximum aperture of f/3.5 at the wide end, which gradually decreases to f/5.6 at the telephoto end. This aperture range provides decent light-gathering capabilities, especially in low-light situations. However, the maximum aperture doesn’t allow for extensive control over depth of field, which is the blur in the background of your image. If you desire a shallower depth of field for portraits or product photography, you might need to consider a lens with a wider maximum aperture.
Image Quality: Sharpness and Detail
Both the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM and the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM are known for producing sharp and detailed images. However, the 18-135mm lens tends to exhibit slightly better sharpness, especially at the longer focal lengths. This is likely due to its more complex optical design, which includes a greater number of lens elements.
Autofocus Performance: Speed and Accuracy
Both lenses feature the STM (Stepping Motor) technology, which provides fast and quiet autofocus performance. This is particularly beneficial for shooting video, as it ensures smooth and silent focus transitions. While both lenses offer comparable autofocus accuracy, the 18-135mm lens may have a slight edge in terms of focusing speed, especially at longer focal lengths.
Image Stabilization: Keeping Things Steady
Both lenses incorporate image stabilization (IS) technology, which helps to reduce camera shake and produce sharper images, especially in low-light conditions or when shooting handheld. The IS system in the 18-135mm lens is generally considered to be more effective, providing up to 4 stops of compensation, compared to the 3 stops of compensation offered by the 18-55mm lens.
Build Quality: Durability and Portability
Both lenses are built with a combination of plastic and metal, offering a sturdy and reliable construction. The 18-135mm lens is slightly larger and heavier than the 18-55mm lens, which makes it less portable. However, it also feels more robust and durable. The 18-55mm lens, on the other hand, is more compact and lightweight, making it easier to carry around.
Price: Value for Money
The Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM is generally more affordable than the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM. This makes it a more budget-friendly option for photographers who are just starting out or who don’t need the extra zoom range of the 18-135mm lens. However, the 18-135mm lens offers a better value proposition for its versatility and image quality.
Choosing the Right Lens: A Summary
Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM:
- Pros: Wide zoom range, better image quality, more effective image stabilization, faster autofocus performance.
- Cons: Larger and heavier, more expensive.
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM:
- Pros: Compact and lightweight, more affordable.
- Cons: Limited zoom range, less effective image stabilization, slightly slower autofocus performance.
Ultimately, the best lens for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you need a versatile lens that can capture a wide range of subjects and situations, the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM is the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable and compact lens for everyday photography, the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM is a solid option.
The Big Picture: Beyond Zoom and Aperture
While the focal length and aperture are crucial factors in lens selection, they’re not the only elements to consider. Here are some additional aspects that can influence your decision:
- Your photographic style: Are you primarily interested in landscapes, portraits, or wildlife photography? Each genre has specific lens requirements.
- Your budget: The price difference between the two lenses might be a deciding factor for some photographers.
- Your portability needs: If you’re a frequent traveler, a compact and lightweight lens might be more appealing.
A Final Thought: The Joy of Experimentation
The best way to determine which lens is right for you is to try them out. Borrow a lens from a friend or rent one from a local camera store. Spend some time shooting with each lens to see which one produces the results you’re looking for.
Questions We Hear a Lot
- Q: Can I use both lenses on my Canon EOS 700D?
- A: Yes, both lenses are compatible with the Canon EOS 700D.
- Q: Which lens is better for shooting video?
- A: Both lenses offer good video performance thanks to their STM technology. However, the 18-135mm lens might be slightly better due to its faster autofocus and more effective image stabilization.
- Q: Can I use these lenses on other Canon cameras?
- A: The Canon EF-S lenses are designed for Canon cameras with APS-C sensors. They won’t work on cameras with full-frame sensors.
- Q: Is there a better lens for the Canon EOS 700D?
- A: There are many other lenses available for the Canon EOS 700D, depending on your specific needs and budget. Some popular options include the Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM, and the Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM.
- Q: What’s the best way to clean my lenses?
- A: Use a lens cleaning kit that includes a blower brush, a microfiber cloth, and lens cleaning solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
